BMW debuted the new i3 coupe at the LA auto show late last year. The automaker has now announced that the car will be priced at approximately $40,000 when it goes into production later this year, making it roughly the same price as the company's incredibly popular 3-Series sedan.

The tip on pricing for the electric vehicle comes via BMW of North America CEO Ludwig Willisch. The CEO says that BMW [obviously] does not expect the electric car to be a volume model.

The “green” BMW EV is expected to qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit. BMW also notes that it is currently waiting to hear from federal regulators if buyers who purchase the range-extended version featuring the optional engine will be able to get the $7,500 tax credit as well.

BMW is set to establish a program that will allow buyers of the pure electric vehicle to borrow a gasoline or diesel vehicle for longer trips. He did say that details are unclear at this point but the service will be offered "as an additional mobility package."

BMW currently expects most of it US dealer network, consisting 338 locations, to sell the i3 and the i8 hybrid sports car.

It's not that unreasonable, as the target buyer isn't expected to drive much with the range extender. The simple engine probably gets 25MPG, so that's be 4 gallons, and a larger tank that rarely gets used is a waste of space in a compact.

Google tells me that it's a 35 hp engine, and that's enough to keep up with consumption, so I suspect you can keep filling up when the battery is depleted. If BMW is smart, they'll let the battery charge a bit with the generator so that it can be occasionally used for acceleration, rather than having only 35 hp in range extending mode.